Mark Proctor, a retired captain of the Tennessee Highway Patrol and former security detail for several Tennessee governors, emphasizes the critical need to address the rising firearm injuries and deaths among children in Tennessee.
He highlights disturbing trends: firearm injuries have become the leading cause of death for Tennessee’s youth, the state ranks third in the nation for accidental shootings by children, and is among the top 10 states for youth suicide by firearm.
Proctor attributes much of this crisis to relaxed gun laws in Tennessee, which have led to more guns being carried with fewer restrictions, particularly in homes where they are often left unlocked and accessible to children.
He underscores that simple measures, such as safely storing firearms and separating ammunition, can prevent tragic accidents and suicides. Research supports this, with studies showing that unlocked guns in homes are linked to higher risks of both unintentional injuries and suicides among children.
The CDC’s data further reveals that many unintentional firearm deaths occur in homes, often involving unsecured, loaded guns.
To combat this issue, Proctor advocates for responsible gun ownership, including the use of gun safes and locks, which are now tax-free in Tennessee.
He also recommends taking advantage of free gun locks offered by the state.
While he remains a strong supporter of the Second Amendment, he stresses that secure firearm storage is essential to protecting children and preventing theft, which often leads to violent crimes.
Proctor calls for Tennesseans to rise to the challenge of making secure firearm storage a priority, ensuring the safety of the state’s children and the broader community.